If you have been inspired by Bradley Wiggins, Victoria Pendleton and the other Team GB Cyclists at the Olympic Games, then now is a great time for you and the children to head out on a bike ride. We asked our friends at Cycle Shrewsbury to write a guest blog on the fun and health benefits cycling can provide for all the family.

With Summer in full swing and the children off school, finding something to do outdoors is more than a challenge. Luckily there is something the whole family can do. It’s free, improves your fitness and means you can enjoy your summer outdoors- Cycling!

It’s sometimes difficult to find something the entire family can enjoy, but with cycling it’s so easy to adapt your route each time so everyone’s entertained and no one ever gets left behind. It doesn’t matter what age you are, cycling is a way of getting out and about in this beautiful county, enjoying the health benefits and avoiding the summer holiday boredom that so often starts to appear!

Rather than taking the car, maybe you could cycle to see friends or to the local park. Get your dose of fresh air and start to feel the benefits of cycling as you become fitter and healthier and save some money at the same time!

It’s important to remember, when you’re out and about on your bikes, to remain safe and seen. Find out more about cycling safely at here. You can sign up for 2 hours of free cycle training, as long as you live or work in Shropshire

Make sure that you plan your routes before you set off – try the online cycle journey planner on the Cycle Shrewsbury website (click on “Plan your journey” on the home page) which lets you choose the quickest, quietest or most recreational route.

When riding, it’s important not to wear any floaty clothes that could get caught in the wheels or chain of the bike. Tie trousers close to your ankles if you can, you can use a hair band for this or even tuck them into your socks!

Once you’re ready and prepared, it’s important to make sure your bike is too. Check your brakes and tyre pressures regularly, and take your bike for a regular service .

It’s always handy if you’re going on longer bike rides to take a map and some water. It can also be useful to take a mobile phone just in case.

Cycle Shrewsbury has details of a variety of different summer cycling activities from Women only rides and family picnics, festivals and treasure hunts to learn to ride sessions for children and even adult cycle training all completely free.

Sign up online to become a member and receive a discount card to use in Shropshire cycling businesses.